Here at La Trobe we place a high priority on supporting students from a wide variety of backgrounds. We have a compressive transition program to support all new students from the moment they receive their offer and we continue to support them throughout their entire degree.
At enrolment new students are greeted by enrolment hosts, who are there to support students throughout the process and make them feel welcomed. Then the academic year begins with a week of orientation. Orientation week is an important step in a student’s transition to university, as it provides them with an opportunity to make friends and connections which will be valuable to their success throughout their first semester of study. It’ll also introduce them academic expectations of their course and of the university.
On the first day of orientation new students are matched up with a connect mentor. These are senior students who are studying the same course as them. These mentors provide support and encouragement via face-to-face and online communications over the first 7 weeks of the semester.
The university environment is very different to the school environment. You’re seen as an adult and you have to develop independent learning skills. We have a wide range of services to support our students, we encourage students to identify their needs early and access the services as required. For example, we have the academic language and learning unit in each of the faculties which is there to support students with discipline specific information and advice. As the first point of call we have the student learning advisors in the library, they’re there to answers basic study questions and to assist students in navigating the library. We also have university counsellors, indigenous student’s service and the equality and diversity unit which addresses a broad range of needs. Students who experience difficult circumstances are encouraged to make contact with the equality and diversity unit as soon as possible.Another key service is the Career Development Centre, they help students find jobs while they are at university and also help with planning for their future careers.
La Trobe also provides many opportunities for students to enhance their employability and enrich their university experience. We recognise students who volunteer out in the community and at the university through the La Trobe award. We also have a leadership program and we have hundreds of clubs and societies for students to join.
And we also encourage all our students to go on an overseas study exchange. We look forward to welcoming your child to La Trobe University. If you need any more information on the support services that are available visit the new students’ website